Top of the word, North Pole cruise

The North Pole is the world’s northernmost point and a prize still zealously pursued by adventurers and explorers today.

This incredible adventure starts in Murmansk, Russia. There you embark the nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Years of Victory for a roundtrip voyage to the geographic North Pole. Anticipation heightens as the mighty ship takes us smashing through the frozen Arctic Ocean toward our goal.You literally circumambulate the globe during our International Round Dance and you are treated to a special barbeque meal on the ice. You may even have the chance to take a plunge into the icy water. No other point on Earth is exactly like the North Pole and there is no celebration anywhere quite like this.

In addition to the exhilaration of cruising aboard a state-of-the-art icebreaker and the thrill of standing at the top of the world, you also have the opportunity to explore the rarely visited Russian Arctic archipelago of Franz Josef Land. This remote wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife, including polar bears. In the surrounding icy waters it is possible to spot seals, walrus, and the elusive bowhead whale. The archipelago also hosts an abundance of nesting Arctic seabirds such as the rare ivory gull.

This is an extraordinary voyage on a one-of-a-kind ship, worthy of a true adventurer.

Day 1:Murmansk, Russia

Welcome to the city of Murmansk on Russia’s Kola Peninsula, starting point of our adventure.

Day 2:Embarkation in Murmansk

Today we provide a group transfer to the port where we welcome you aboard the nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy. Explore the ship and get orientated as we slip our moorings and sail north out of Kola Bay.

Days 3-6:The voyage north

We cruise northward through the Barents Sea there is always the possibility of seeing whales. As we make our way across the ice cap, you witness firsthand the ship’s awesome power as massive ice blocks give way under the enormous bulk of the spoon-shaped bow. The sensation of being on deck at this time is surreal and unforgettable.

Day 7:North Pole

Welcome to the geographic North Pole! After carefully navigating to 90 degrees North, we ceremoniously drop the anchor on a sturdy stretch of ice and disembark onto the frozen sea. Now is the time to experiencing the long-anticipated thrill of standing at the top of the world. Join hands with your fellow passengers and literally walk around the world during our special International Round Dance.

Days 8-10:Franz Joseph Land

Explore the part of the Russian Arctic National Park. Polar bears and other quintessential High Arctic wildlife—such as walruses and some rare whale species - can be spotted anytime, anywhere in and around Franz Josef Land. Scree slopes and cliffs around the islands host enormous nesting colonies of migratory seabirds such as guillemots, dovekies, and ivory gulls.

Days 11-12:The voyage south

After our amazing time in Franz Josef Land we cross back south through the bountiful waters of the Barents Sea. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from panoramic open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows.

Day 13:Murmansk

Our once-in-a-lifetime journey comes to an end. After breakfast we say farewell in Murmansk. We provide you with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Inclusions

Accommodation

1 night pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Murmansk

Ice Breaker "50 Years of Victory" accommodation

Meals

Shipboard breakfasts, lunches and dinners

Transportation

Group airport transfers

Guides

Program of lectures and informal discussions by experienced Expedition Team and guest lecturers

Professional Expedition Leadership

Activities and sights

All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by helicopter and zodiacs

Shore landings included in daily program

Other

Branded parka and rubber boots for shore landings for the time of the cruise

All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program

Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation. See more in the detailed itinerary

Russian visa support document*Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for comprehensive visa service here.